Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), often referred to as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and worsens with physical or mental activity.

While the exact cause remains unclear, it’s thought to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, including viral infections and immune system issues, and even severe stress. In the UK, estimates suggest that around 250,000 people are affected, making it more common than you might think.

The symptoms of CFS can vary greatly from person to person but commonly include severe fatigue, sleep disturbances/disorders, muscle or joint pain, persistent headaches, and cognitive difficulty, e.g., trouble concentrating—often referred to as "brain fog”. Other symptoms may include sore throat, enlarged lymph nodes, and sensitivity to lights or sounds. Physical or mental exertion can lead to a worsening of symptoms, a phenomenon known as post-exertional malaise (PEM). Sufferers often feel that they have no energy, and that this is not made better by rest or relaxation, which sets them apart from the general population.

While there is currently no definitive cure for CFS, treatment often focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and graded exercise therapy (GET) are sometimes recommended, and some find symptom relief through dietary adjustments or alternative therapies like acupuncture. However, it is crucial for patients to tailor their approach based on individual needs and responses. Collaborative care with healthcare professionals who understand the condition is invaluable, so that sufferers can develop an arrangement of management techniques to be able to live with the condition as best as possible.

Further information and resources

• The ME Association
• Action for ME Charity  
• NHS: Chronic Fatigue

Recommended books

• "Waiting For Superman: One Family's Struggle to Survive – and Cure – Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" by Tracie White – A personal and emotional book about a son’s affliction with CFS, and his geneticist father’s exploration of potential treatments and cure.
• "Living with ME and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" by Dr Gerald Coakley and Beverly Knops – A consultant rheumatologist and occupational therapist guide sufferers and their friends and family through CFS, from its causes and impact on day-to-day life to how to best manage it.
• "Fighting Fatigue" by Sue Pemberton, Catherine Berry, and Janine Spencer – A practical manual written by experts at an established treatment centre for CFS and their patients.

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